Anxiety often feels overpowering, trapping us in a relentless cycle. Whether it's the demands of work, school, or the turmoil of our own minds, escape seems impossible. Anxiety becomes a prison cell, preventing us from experiencing the peace and joy we're meant to embrace, hindering us from pursuing our walk with Jesus.
But, God gives us the key to this prison cell and breaks the chains when we turn to Him. There's a profound release that comes from resting in the presence of God. For in Him we are free and we don’t have to live in fear.
So why can we rest in Christ?
Jesus intimately knows us.
Psalm 139:1-3 -"You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways."
Our Creator's profound understanding of us is matched only by His boundless love. Despite our endless mistakes, He loves us more than anyone else ever could. He sustains us and promises to uphold us.
Jesus works all things together for the good of those who love Him.
Romans 8:28 - "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
He is in complete control and guides each step of our journey, and uses His sovereignty for our good and to fulfill His perfect plan for our lives.
3. We cannot disrupt God's perfect plan.
Proverbs 16:9 -"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."
Proverbs 3:5-6 -"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
God’s plan for us is not fragile; rather it withstands our human imperfections. He knew each mistake we would make long before we ever walked the earth. We are called to walk in alignment with God and trust that He is guiding us in the way we ought to go. We must be grateful for His faithfulness in spite of our mistakes.
4. He is just AND merciful.
Psalm 23:3 - "He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake."
1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
God will only lead us on paths of righteousness. His mercery offers forgiveness and redemption, drawing us out of shame and into His loving embrace.
5. God is always with us.
Matthew 28:20 - "Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Deuteronomy 31:6 - "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
God is with us through all things. Through the dark or joyful times, the complicated and simple times, when we work, eat, sleep. He is with us through it all. And He will never leave or forsake us!
Through prayer and trust in God, we find peace amidst life's uncertainties. Anxiety cannot cripple those who stand strong in their faith. With these promises as our foundation, we can live BOLDY for Him, trusting in His unfailing love and guidance.
______________
Additional Verses:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:6-8
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalms 46:10
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Comments